In this Post: Learn simple tips and tricks to help you stay healthy this Fall. Ideas of things that you can easily implement into your routine starting today.
It’s that time of year again. The seasons are changing, the temperatures are dropping, and the germs are circulating – causing our bodies to be more susceptible to illness. But luckily, with a healthy approach to this changing season, we can help our immune systems ward off any colds or illnesses which might threaten us. There are many different ways to keep yourself healthy and your immune system strong during these colder months, and here are a few…
How to Stay Healthy this Fall
Sleep
Sleep is an essential part of living a healthy and balanced life. There are many benefits for your health from getting proper sleep. It helps to restore and rejuvenate the mind and regenerate the body’s cells. While you are sleeping, your immune system releases proteins called cytokines (some of which help promote sleep).
Certain cytokines need to increase when you have an infection or inflammation, or when you’re under stress. If you can get the optimal amount of sleep, which for most adults is seven to eight hours, the release of these cytokines can help your body fight infection.
Try these methods if you are struggling to fall or stay asleep.
- Drink some hot chamomile or lavender tea.
- Try natural methods such as melatonin or valerian root.
- Take a hot bath 20 minutes before you lay down; this will relax your body and mind.
- Try some organic CBD oil to calm your nerves.
- Pick up an easy-read book to tire your eyes.
- Practice conscious breathing long, full, deep breaths.
It is crucial to make sure sleep is a priority in your life to keep your body and mind healthy and strong – don’t deprive yourself.
Stress Management
Stress Management is key to improving and strengthening your immune system. This will help keep you healthy and strong. Your body and mind are interconnected, and if when one is off-balance, the other becomes so as well. It is so important to take care of yourself not only physically, but also mentally.
We live in a society where stress becomes such a norm that sometimes we allow it to consume our lives. Stress management comes into play in making mental health priority in everyday life.
One way to manage stress is through exercise. Exercise is another double whammy for supporting your physical body and mind. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters.
Getting outside for hikes or walks benefit you both through the exercise you will receive as well as allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors. Breath in the fresh air and appreciate being surrounded by beauty.
A few other ways to calm the mind and body are:
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Massage
- Taking relaxing baths
- Reading your favorite book
- Taking a day off
- Getting plenty of rest when you feel mentally drained or physically tired.
- Talking, or reaching out to people you trust when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Make sure to keep stress management a priority, and you will feel mentally sharp and physically healthy throughout these colder and changing seasons; keeping your immune system stable during these colder months!
Natural Herbs
Herbs can help with preventing illness and strengthen your immune system as well.
Echinacea (purpurea) is one of the best-known herbs that is used to support acute and continual immune health.
Research studies have shown that taking Echinacea regularly helps increase the number of white blood cells produced. These cells help to protect the body from foreign invaders and illness.
This natural medicinal herb can be taken as a supplement, as an herbal tea, tinctures, and extracts. If you feel a cold coming on or if you are just feeling a little run down during this season, go find some Echinacea. See for yourself how this herb gradually makes you feel better.
Olive leaf, oregano, elderberry, & astragalus are some other herbs that support immune function while also offering antioxidant support. Try them out and see the naturally positive results!
Nutrition
Nutrition is essential for your body’s wellness. Not only is nutrition important when your body is more susceptible to getting sick. It is also vital daily for long term health.
Be aware of what you are putting into your body, especially during these colder months. It is true when they say, ‘you are what you eat.’ Whether you are feeling run down, or are having a full-blown seasonal cold, eating foods that are high in vitamins, nutrients, and hydrating are critical in a speedy recovery.
Try to stay away from caffeine, alcohol, sugar, tobacco, and anything else that may cause inflammation or make your illness worse. Maintain a healthy diet and cook some healthy, hearty meals (or, better yet, have someone else cook for you).
Homemade vegetable-chicken noodle soup is always a good choice. You can incorporate chicken stock or bone broth, lots of fresh vegetables, organic chicken, and added spices and herbs. Add turmeric to help with inflammation, ginger for gut health, and garlic for antioxidants. It will also warm you up on these colder nights and soothe your throat from the dry weather – not to mention it will taste GREAT!
Eat lots of fruits & veggies. Drink plenty of water. These are basic ways to maintain a robust immune system.
Massage
Massage is a beneficial way to keep your body, mind, and spirit healthy and active. Studies have shown that receiving a massage can actually increase the number of lymphocytes in your blood.
Lymphocytes are white blood cells that play a massive role in supporting our immune system. Massage helps to increase circulation within the body. It relaxes your cortisol levels to help you with stress and anxiety. It helps to detoxify the body from toxins, repairs, and restores muscles, and improves sleep to help your cells regenerate.
With this knowledge in these cold, changing seasons, make sure to call us at Kneading Hands to book yourself a massage. You will not only feel great, but you will ultimately be helping your body’s immune system for days. This will allow you to fight off any threats from germs, illnesses, and foreign invaders. Treat yourself and keep your physical and mental health a priority!
You deserve to feel good and stay healthy this Fall. Take the necessary steps to make sure you are taking protective measures to keep yourself happy and free of illness :). Fall into health this season!